One of the main goals of the LIFE program is to increase the
viability and sustainability of farms run by socially disadvantaged, undeserved
Southeast Asian growers in Hawaii and to integrate farmers into mainstream
agriculture. We consider mainstream producers to
have: sound understanding of crop production issues, business action plan,
quality products, consistent products, market awareness, market presence, and
are active participants, information seekers, transformational leaders and
demonstrate willingness to assist others.
Willingness to help one another is just of
the characteristics we promote when assisting growers who are transitioning
into ‘mainstream’ operations. We couldn’t be more ecstatic about LIFE
cooperator and advocate, Mr. You Soukaseum (commonly called Mr. You) from
Kahuku, Oahu. Mr You recently took time out of his busy day to share mango
growing and fruit fly control strategy tips with a traveling scholar from
Africa, Mr. Leonard Seempijja and PEPS colleague Dr. Luc LeBlanc
Mr.
Seempijja said,” Thank you so much, again, for yesterday's trip. That was
really great.” The tips Mr. You shared with the two visitors were valuable and
well received. LIFE agent, Jari Sugano was in attendance to facilitate the
physical meeting between the two groups, but allowed the grower to lead the
conversation. She said, “It was an excellent example of a Hawaii grower ‘paying
it forward’ in helping other farmers grow as well.”
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